Giannis Antetokounmpo addresses Brook Lopez exit, Milwaukee Bucks sign $107m replacement, and land three more deals

Bucks land big replacement

The Milwaukee Bucks made a stunning move in free agency, landing Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner.

Turner was part of the Pacers team who eliminated Milwaukee in the playoffs, and reached the NBA Finals, and this is a major statement.

Shams Charania reports: “Free agent center Myles Turner has agreed to a four-year, $107 million deal with the Milwaukee Bucks, plus a player option for year four in 2028-29 and a full 15% trade kicker, sources tell ESPN.”

Milwaukee have struck three further deals, agreeing to re-sign Jericho Sims and Gary Harris. Sims and Harris both signed two-year deals to stay with the team.

The Bucks have also struck a trade with the Charlotte Hornets. They have sent Pat Connaughton and two future second round picks, to acquire Vasilije Micic.

Lillard makes Bucks exit, Giannis unhappy

Facilitating all of this, the Milwaukee Bucks have waived Damian Lillard, but will still be paying for him.

The Bucks have stretched Lillard’s contract out over the next five years, where he is owed $113 million. Lillard is set to miss the upcoming season due to a torn Achilles.

This has provided the team with the flexibility to sign Turner, making a splash, however, Giannis Antetokounmpo is not happy.

Insider Chris Haynes told NBA TV: “He just didn’t like how it was handled.”

Milwaukee might not be done making moves, but they are trying to improve. The addition of Turner is a major acquisition.

Whether it is enough to placate a restless Giannis, remains to be seen.